Page 12 - Dhamma Practice

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phenomenon comes first. This shows that the conscious phenomenon for each person, at different moments, may not be the same. We may observe that every time we practice vipassana, during each meditation session, the beginning of the natural conditions may not always be the inflate-deflate phenomenon. Sometimes, as we close our eyes, thoughts come first. Sometimes, as we close our eyes, the inflate-deflate phenomenon comes first. After a short while, sensation emerges, as the inflate-deflate phenomenon becomes less clear. These are also natural conditions that occur.
Therefore, practitioners must observe their own natural conditions. Currently, what conscious phenomenon is most apparent to us? This is how we maintain our awareness in the present. We should not try to select specific conscious phenomenon. For example, every time we practice vipassana, we may try to observe only the inflate-deflate phenomenon but, in reality, the thoughts phenomenon is more apparent. This will lead to the presence of two phenomena. When this happens, observe that whichever phenomenon is more powerful, the mind will move to contemplate that phenomenon. That is our present conscious phenomenon.
Therefore, when we say we should be aware of the present conscious phenomenon, we must first know what our present conscious phenomenon is. For example, if the thoughts phenomenon is more powerful, our mind will be